May is Military Appreciation Month and It Will Be Much Different Than Years Past

BY MB ADMIN April 29, 2020

May is Military Appreciation Month, a month dedicated to celebrating the men and women in uniform for their sacrifices made every day in protecting our freedom.

This Military Appreciation Month will be much different than years past where businesses nationwide celebrate the Armed Forces with special discounts and freebies. This month, we will not be able to enjoy the free weekend to amusement parks, tourist attractions, zoos or restaurants. We will not be able to enjoy the large celebrations such as Fleet Week or the Patriotic Festivals. Sure, there will still be some great military discounts available online to enjoy but it won’t be the same.

Before we get to down and out, let’s not forget what we are truly celebrating this Military Appreciation Month, after all it’s not the discounts, it’s about our military. So, let’s rise up this month and celebrate the military community, louder than before. Let’s honor our military for all the sacrifices they face to protect our country.

Remember those deployed during this time of uncertainty, think of those facing an on hold PCS, think of those called up to duty fighting on the front lines to help those in need, think of those that train day in and day out to protect our country, think of the families, it is a sacrifice made. It is honorable. It is brave. It is selfless. I thank you United States Military Men and Women, this month and every month, we salute you.

Here are some ways in which you, your family and businesses can celebrate the military this Military Appreciation Month

May 1-31st, 2020 is National Military Appreciation Month. Congress designated May as National Military Appreciation Month in 1999 to ensure the nation was given the opportunity to publicly demonstrate their appreciation for the sacrifices and successes made by our service members – past and present. Each year the president makes a proclamation, reminding Americans of the important role the U.S. Armed Forces have played in the history and development of our country. Within May there are several military related national observances.

Military Spouse Appreciation Day
Observed: Friday, May 8th, 2020, traditionally set for the Friday before Mother’s Day. Many United States citizens take this day to acknowledge the significant contributions, support, and sacrifices of spouses of the Armed Forces.

Armed Forces Day
Observed: Saturday, May 16th, 2020, Celebrated the third Saturday in May every year.
Armed Forces Day is a holiday for citizens to come together and thank our military members for their patriotic service in support of our country. This day honors everyone serving in the U.S. Military branches; Air Force, Army, Coast Guard, Marines, Navy.

Memorial Day
Observed: Monday, May 25th, 2020, A Federal holiday observed on the last Monday in May. Memorial Day is a day for remembering the people who died while serving in the country’s Armed Forces.

THANK A MILITARY MEMBER OR VETERAN

Yes, something as simple as a “Thank You” goes a long way. Our family always makes a point to say “Thank you for your service” when we see a military member out in the community. It is also a great concept to teach your children. It is important to show kindness and appreciation for the sacrifices the military makes on a day to day basis. Another great gesture if possible, is to buy someone in the military’s meal or coffee. It may not be easy with our current situation, but if possible, it is a great way to say “Thank You”.

MAKE AN ANNOUNCEMENT ON SOCIAL MEDIA

This is a great way to show your appreciation to military members and their families. Recognize Military Appreciation Month on your social media and let your friends know how thankful you are for our military. Encourage your friends on social to do the same. Use the hashtags: #MilitaryAppreciationMonth #HonorService

FLY A FLAG

I just love seeing a flag flying high outside a business or in someones yard. It’s a great sign of patriotism. Fly it high and fly it proud.

REACH OUT TO YOUR LOCAL USO CENTER OR ARMED SERVICES YMCA

Ask if they need any assistance or help with anything. These military organizations do so much for military members and their families. A local chapter is a great way to show appreciation. They will be able to let you know where they need support.

VOLUNTEER OR MAKE A DONATION TO A MILITARY NON-PROFIT

Although we may not be able to physically volunteer due to COVID-19, there still may be other needs that you could assist with. Again, if you have children, this is a great teaching opportunity on giving back to the community and our military.

Tuesday, May 5, 2020 is #GivingTuesday. This is a great opportunity to give to a military non-profit. There are so many amazing non-profits available today to help in all aspects of military life. You can find a list of some Military Non-Profits on MilitaryBridge.

DISCOUNTS

Some online companies are offering special military discounts for the month of May, in appreciation of Military Service. Stay tuned to our social channels to learn more!

It makes me sad to not be putting in the long hours that I do every April in effort to share all of the wonderful discounts and freebies for military and their families. But, the time will come again one day. We won’t let this pandemic take away the true meaning of Military Appreciation Month. Thank you for your service and sacrifice. We appreciate you and all you do day in and day out to keep our country safe.